Emergency regulations for dentists prescribing of medications containing opioids and for continuing education for prescribers of controlled substances are being promulgated as emergency regulations to address the opioid abuse crisis in Virginia. Regulations for the management of acute pain include requirements for the evaluation of the patient, limitations on quantity and dosage, and record-keeping. Management of chronic pain requires either referral to a pain management specialist or adherence to regulations of the Board of Medicine. All dentists who prescribe Schedule II through IV drugs will be required to take two hours of continuing education on pain management during the renewal cycle following the effective date of these regulations.

Chapters Affected

Only affects this chapter.

Exempt from APA

No, this action is subject to the Administrative Process Act and the standard
executive branch review process.